New HS2 consultations welcomed

Responding to the launch of a new public consultation on HS2's Phase 2b, Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Leader of Bradford Council, said:

�This is another positive step forward for HS2 which is crucial to our ambitious plans for this region and could help create 300,000 jobs through improved transport connections, acceleration of regeneration schemes and helping to attract inward investment.

Cllr Eric Firth, Deputy Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee, said: �HS2 is a critical component of our ambitions to transform our regional and national transport connections alongside an upgraded trans-Pennine line, Northern Powerhouse Rail and sustained investment in the East Coast Main Line. Infrastructure built for HS2 will also deliver Northern Powerhouse Rail and it is essential we approach these projects in an integrated way.

�We want to work with HS2 to ensure it is built in a way that takes into account the needs of local communities. This public consultation is an important opportunity for our communities to have a further say on the detailed plans for HS2.�

HS2 is coming�

Announcing the consultations on plans to extend the railway north today, Leonie Dubois, HS2 Ltd�s Head of Consultation and Engagement, said: �HS2 is coming to the north and it will reap significant benefits as a result. High speed rail will play a crucial role in rebalancing Britain�s economy; driving business growth, stimulating investment and creating jobs right across the country.

�Through the public consultations, we are providing a more detailed account of how we propose to build the railway and minimise its impacts during construction and operation. We actively encourage people to have their say on the plans we have published today.

�Residents and businesses across the Phase 2b route are invited to view the latest designs and respond to the public consultations. A new online resource has been created to help people find information about HS2 in their local area.�